Dollhouse Student Spotlight – Jenna and Grace

Loving up on our students is one of our favorite things to do here at The Dollhouse Fitness. They inspire us constantly and make our hearts swoon…All. The. Damn. TIME! And it is totally share-worthy! So every now and then we’re going to shine a big ol’ glimmering spotlight on a student and ask them to share some deets about their beautiful journey with us at The Dollhouse Fitness. We hope it’ll motivate, inspire, and spark something special in anyone who is curious about our community that aims to uplift and empower through the art of dance, strength-building, and sensuality.

Our very first spotlight is on not one but TWO incredible women who came to dance with us only a few months ago. Meet Jenna and Grace — a super sweet and supportive mother-daughter dancing duo!

Name: Jenna (Hot Mama!)

What inspired you to start dancing with us?

It was actually (Grace’s) idea. She was home for the summer after her first year at school and looking for different ways to stay fit and active. Her older sister was also visiting when we took our introductory class, so us three girls actually all went together! I wasn’t sure at first but quickly discovered my new favorite work out!

How does dancing, moving, and spinning, with us make you feel?

It’s an amazing feeling, honestly! Everyone is supportive. We work out, dance and have fun! Dollhouse combines movement to music in the best lighting! I love the variety of classes that are offered. I’m in awe of the strength and athleticism of some of the more advanced students. It’s a great way to get out of your head and focus on your body.

What is your biggest “OMG! I can’t believe I did that!” moment to date?

I learned the fireman spin in my first class and was hooked. Since then there have been many more of those “OMG I can’t believe I just did that!” moments. Dancing with my daughter, there have been some “OMG—I can’t believe she just did that!” moments too. We have fun with it all!

We LOVE that you’re a mother and daughter dancing duo. It sends such a positive and healthy message about uplifting, empowering, and supporting each other as women…from one generation to another.

What is your favorite part about being on this movement journey together?

It’s bonded us. When our children grow and move away, it’s bittersweet. Sharing this experience together at this time has been a powerful reflection of the never-ending process of change, acceptance, self-discovery, and re-discovery. It’s also provided our entire family opportunity for Important and thoughtful discussions about health, fitness, Freedom, expression, sensuality and positive self-image.

What would be your #1 advice for others who are nervous, curious or even scared to try moving with us?

It’s totally ok to be uncertain about trying something new and different! But if you’re curious or you’re thinking about it—just give it a try! I’m so glad I did.

Name: Grace (Graceful Babe!)

What inspired you to start dancing with us?

I was browsing YouTube one day when I saw a video of a pole competition. The woman in the video ended up placing 3rd. I was so amazed by her performance, but I couldn’t help but think, “if she got 3rd place, who got first? How can it get any better than that?” After (a few too many) hours of browsing pole competition videos, I knew I had to try it. A couple weeks later I was home from college for the summer, and I knew I REALLY wanted to try pole dancing, but I had no idea how to tell my mom. I eventually decided that I should ask her to come with me! My sister was also in town at the time, so we all went to our very first pole class together! We all fell in love with it and it’s now one of the best parts of my day.

How does dancing, moving, and spinning, with us make you feel?

I’ve always struggled with confidence, but when I’m dancing at The Dollhouse I feel self-assured in a way I never have before. I can see my progress not only in my dancing, but in my strength, flexibility, and how I carry myself. It’s hard for me to feel discouraged when I think about where I was just a few months ago. I had no idea dance could be this powerful.

What is your biggest “OMG! I can’t believe I did that!” moment to date?

My favorite has to be my first kip. It was my first advanced exotic floor work class and I was feeling a little out of my league (which of course only made me want to work harder). The instructor went over how to do a baby version of a kip, and so in my head, I thought “I really have to go for this.” So I launched myself off the floor, and instead of doing the baby version (landing on the tip of my heels), I did a full kip and landed on my knees. It took me a second to process what had happened, but the instructor and a couple of the other dolls cheered me on. It definitely was not a perfect execution by any means, but it taught me to not be shy when trying new moves.

We LOVE that you’re a mother and daughter dancing duo. It sends such a positive and healthy message about uplifting, empowering, and supporting each other as women…from one generation to another.

What is your favorite part about being on this movement journey together?

Throughout this journey, I have been consistently reminded of how supportive my family is. I feel so lucky that my mom was willing to try pole dancing with me. She’s my favorite dance partner and it’s been amazing to grow together. It’s also been fun to see how my family’s views surrounding pole dancing have changed. When my mom told my grandma that we were pole dancing together, my grandma scoffed and rolled her eyes, but a few weeks later, my grandparents ended up buying me a pole for my birthday! Realizing that my family is so supportive of me and each other has been such a blessing.

What would be your #1 advice for others who are nervous, curious or even scared to try moving with us?

Bring a friend or a family member! It’s easy for pole dancing to seem intimidating, but bringing someone who supports you can really help you feel more confident.

The Dollhouse Fitness is a pole dance studio located in North San Diego, California. We are dedicated to empowering women through dance and aerial arts in a safe, body positive space. We offer pole dance classes, flexibility training classes, and more! Come move with us at 535 Encinitas Blvd, Suite 104, Encinitas, CA 92024. PH: (858) 442-3799 — Contact us!